At ScottishPower, we are aware of the many issues that our rural customers face and in particular, the increased prevalence of fuel poverty, particularly for those living off the gas grid.

The ScottishPower Energy People Trust, funds registered charities that help people whose lives are affected by fuel poverty. To date, the Trust has provided over half a million pounds to 15 projects in rural England, helping 352k individuals in 347k households. These projects collectively have led to an increase in household income for the beneficiaries of £2.6m. In addition, through these projects alone, 19 jobs have been created and 90 volunteers supported these organisations. One of these projects – the Cheshire West Warm Zone, was awarded £40,000 for the Fuelling Independence in Rural Communities – Affordable Warmth Advice project. This project employed a full time energy efficiency/benefits adviser to provide a comprehensive advice service to vulnerable adults and young people living in rural fuel poverty, securing £266k in Government benefits and £165k in additional benefits through the Warm Home Discount, fuel debt relief and tariff switching etc. for those living in rural parts of Cheshire.

In addition, as part of our delivery of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), ScottishPower has funded the installation of around 3,500 energy efficiency measures including solid wall insulation, cavity wall insulation and loft insulation in properties in rural areas of England.

We also have a dedicated energy efficiency advice line (0800 33 22 33) where our advisors are specifically trained to provide advice on all energy efficiency matters, including how to most efficiently operate electric heating systems. For those customers who require more dedicated assistance, we have a team of Customer Liaison Officers who operate across the whole of Great Britain and can visit customers in their homes and provide information and advice in a variety of areas, including how best to optimise their heating system.

Additionally, our customer service team are available through our UK based call centres and our online service (www.scottishpower.co.uk) and are fully trained to provide help and support on all aspects of ScottishPower’s services including those specific to our customers in rural areas. With our longer call centre opening times, customers can now contact us Monday to Friday 8am until 10pm and Saturday 8:30am – 6:30pm (0800 027 0072).